DE19622304A1 - Interchangeable postage computer module and method for data transmission - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an interchangeable postage computer module according to the kind specified in claim 1 and a corresponding method for data transmission between postage computer module and base unit, according to the in Preamble of claim 10 specified type.

Field of application for such a postage computer module are especially postage scales and franking machines or similar or billing basic devices.

Several methods are already known, Portoberech Interchangeable tables in postage-calculating scales or to make it reloadable. So in US 4,506,330 one in a PROM on a removable circuit board Stored postage table with switches for Addressing switchover described.

In US 3,635,297 a similar one is stored in ROM’s, exchangeable postage memory table described. This Table is on a parallel bus to the fast one Allow processor access to them.  

EP 0 099 666 B1 also describes a system with a fixed processor and interchangeable Fee table storage works.

Such solutions with a conventional postage structure are only flexible regarding the table size. In case of Tariff extensions or changes are simply the Read-only memory with the postage rate table against one exchanged those with more storage capacity. From The disadvantage is that such replaceable Read-only memory from the processor in the base unit a permanently stored program can be evaluated. So such solutions are on conventional postage Structural elements of the program limited and opposite new postage structure elements inflexible. Another Disadvantage when accessing the read-only memory with an extensive postage rate table consists of that sufficient speed to access the Use of an expensive interface requires which must have a large number of PINs.

From a medium to high number of to mailing letters or other mail items are in franking machines for franking the Postal items used. A franking machine is with one Control unit, storage means, an input means, a MODEM or other data receiving means, one I / O control means, a display means and one Printer equipped, being in the storage means non-volatile saved a prepaid credit value chert is present. As a rule, the control unit is responsible CPU also managing the monetary data and the Postage meter is with suitable security means Mistake. After deducting the determined postage from The aforementioned credit value prints a fixed one Print head columns the franking imprint at the same early letter transport. This is a print width of about 1 inch.

US 4 802 218 primarily describes methods for  chip card-based billing of a franking system, however, also includes the suggestion of another chip Card on which the current postage rate table is saved chert is. This postal rate table is created by the Franking system used to determine the postage value. It turns out to be the bottleneck for data transmission here too the serial interface to the chip card the postage rate table.

There are procedures to avoid this disadvantage suitable, which is not only immediately during the Postage calculation to the external read-only memory access, but in advance the current postage rate table Copy or load into an internal memory area. A charging plug for such a method is from the EP 0 560 717 A2 for a franking machine is known become an internal postage calculator closes. The built in the internal postage calculator Tariff memory can be added later by the user be updated by using a charging plug on the outside the new postage table is inserted, its content after actuation of command input means in the internal computer memory is copied. The user must itself for loading, d. H. for the topicality of the internal table data. A flexi balance to future changes is only in the extent to which the table size is given internal storage space was previously scheduled for this.

The postage fee tables are updated from time to time Postal carrier updated. Usually be there tariffs for certain transport services increased. Through a charging plug or exchange of fixed values save all future changes take into account, but will become increasingly difficult in the future, because there is no flexibility regarding new ones Postage calculation structures.

As long as franking machines only for billing with one  Carrier (previously the national postal agency) can be seen is the expiration of the old postage fees tables and the need to reload one a new table for the manufacturer and the customer process still to be surveyed, especially if the Postage structures are retained. Then you can too a data center the transmission of a current Initiate table, as known from DE 28 03 982 has become. The postage calculation devices of all customers but must with a modem or similar Be equipped for transmission and for the over receiving the update data constantly be kept ready. Structural changes in the Calculation cannot be considered. On Such a procedure can also not be individual for everyone Customers a special set of suitable carriers load into his postage calculator.

Another method is in US 5 490 077 for a Franking machine has been described in detail, which automatically for the topicality of the internally stored Table data each time the franking is switched on machine by loading it from an external memory provides a means of transmission. Each requires Transmission means specific receipt or input medium. In a mobile radio variant, mobile radio Receiving / sending means, in the case of an ISDN variant, a modem and with a chip card variant a chip card reading unit required.

With all of these loading or copying methods is admittedly no speed at data access during the Charging more necessary, but such solutions are always still too inflexible regarding a tariff change, which is a much larger rate table for The consequence is and does not permit adaptation to a new one Postage calculation structure.

One of the remaining improvements to Fran kiermaschinen lies in creating flexibility  in terms of billing against various Carriers. Doing so is an inexpensive service service from the applicable tariff structures ver select different carriers. But is the Fran Kiermaschine for billing against a variety set up by different carriers, one must also special solution can be created so that always for valid postage fees for the selected carrier table is available. requirement of it is planning enough storage space for the different carrier-related tariffs. Now is but conceivable that new regional, national or international private carriers of those postage structures completely different from the previous one have that are not shown in the tables leave that unchanged old interpretation program could determine the postage value from this. Fundamentally new postage calculation structures of the Tariffs could be national postal agencies as well as private ones Determine carrier. So when updating it should the interpretation program can also be exchanged, which is especially true for franking machines concerns, because one of the franking machines Program code executed by the computer must always be saved security criteria regarding data manipulation Lation security of the in the franking machine secured monetary data. The one program parts fed may, in the sense of the data mani do not reduce population security. From the perspective of Carrier presents every possibility of the user outside a program code into the franking machine load an unacceptable security risk because it cannot be ruled out that this way targeted software for the purpose of manipulating the intentions of counterfeit money becomes. But even if, from the above Procedure deviating, a service technician the new program parts (Instal lation program) should result, except the cost also basic difficulties for a  such installation procedure. The figure too future postage calculation structures required Space is required in the internal memory area hard to plan ahead, which means that the above Installation procedures may also be possible can fail.

The invention has for its object the disadvantages the state of the art to eliminate and use an interface as well as at a low too carrying amount of data in an arrangement the postage to determine fees.

The solution is said to be a slight modification to the carrier and / or country-specific postage structure allow without opening the base machine or one To have to commission service technicians. Especially is to be used in the case of new types that may appear later Postage calculation structures the postage calculation type easily convertible or expandable.

In addition, there is a more flexible method of data transfer for processing for postage calculation so continue to develop that equipment, such as Postage scales or franking machines if necessary in Connection with scales, on future services various private mail carriers are expandable, so that the postage value according to currently valid tariffs can be calculated.

These tasks are accomplished with the features of claims 1 or 10 solved.

A common cause of the above Disadvantages is that the problem of possible later changes in postal tariffs so far through the exchange or reloading a fee schedule has been resolved. The real one Fees are calculated by the existing pro grams of the corresponding basic device (franking  machine or postage scale) integrated Postage calculator by evaluating the reloaded or externally attached postage table. Because the evaluating The program and the computer cannot be changed from the outside is only a predetermined class of postage rate changes reloadable. If the structure is on fundamental changes in unforeseen ways can also the exchange of the fixed interpretation program be required so that a technician deployment all installed systems is required. Here may be extensive changes required because of the hardware equipment of the reloadability for all times the postage tables is limited, especially with regard to of the storage space for recording the fee table addressability and computing speed speed. It would be easily conceivable that future postage tables because of their complexity for these reasons not adequately processed by the old computer can be. This applies to an even greater extent if the tariffs of several entering the market in the future Carrier taken into account in the postage calculation should be. An oversizing of the hardware a franking machine or a postage meter on one A sufficiently future-proof level would, however, Represent compromise already at the time of Device production costs money, but only from a few Users or may never be needed.

The invention is based on the idea, not only Make the postage tables interchangeable by the customer, but also the postage calculator by the customer to be exchanged with.

The formation of the postage fee and calculation module takes place according to the invention as one to a standard interface to pluggable or inside a Base device at a location accessible to the customer settable, interchangeable device for postage calculation, which subsequently interchangeable postage computer module  is called. This interchangeable postage calculator module contains essential parts of a complete postage invoice ners, in particular a central processing unit (CPU) and a memory for postage information as well a housing.

It is useful to have the postage calculator module in one To accommodate a dongle-type housing.

The interface is called a standardized serial Interface executed. It is envisaged that Postage computer module via the interface connector to supply at least one operating voltage.

In the case of a postage calculation structure change such a postage computer module, such as a dongle, as whole be exchanged by the user. As Basic devices are suitable for franking machines or postage Libra.

The postage computer module provides at least one data Carrier to change the display in the base unit services provided by inputs requirements for a carrier and processing of the data supplied in the basic device.

The postage computer module receives the franking from the computer machine and / or the postage scale via the interface Information about weight and additional information of the User pressed for shipping, especially via Keys. From this information, the interchangeable postage calculator the postage value and sends this in connection with other data about a Interface to the requesting computer in the basic device back.

The exchangeable postage computer module can be used as a single-chip computer or also as a processing unit CPU separate storage elements.

It is advantageous that the program for determining postage  rely on postage tables of the conventional type can, but is not limited to, if in Postage calculation module located program from the customer if exchanged with. This is postage door elements that are difficult to depict in postage tables are, in a simple way by appropriate program process predictable, which gives advantages in terms of Memory requirements and processing speed surrender. This is particularly advantageous if a new carrier offer a service for what Fees of a different or different kind and Way to be determined. Furthermore, in the case of complex postage calculation changes of the traditional Mail carrier advantageous. Advantages also arise with the production of country variants. The operational pro grams in the base machine do not have to be touched, if a different country-specific calculation structure it is asked for.

The protocol is appropriately agreed so that the Use of the exchangeable postage calculator described equally as an accessory to a scale as well is possible as an additional device to a franking machine. This makes an entire device family optional equip with the postage calculation function.

It is intended to include some of the values received submit back. These values can vary in individual cases be changed by the postage computer module to request this to signal the device and thus the user that the originally selected form of dispatch for reasons the tariff structure is inadmissible or inappropriate. It is possible the user at the same time an expedient to signal possible form of dispatch.

There are some other commands in the protocol to be agreed, for example to query the Version number of the exchangeable postage computer module or the exchangeable postage calculator module Informa transfers over the requesting system so  different program sequences can be controlled can, if the exchangeable postage computer module different systems should be operated.

A variant is provided in which the housing of the postage computer module with two interfaces is equipped to connect the computer to the serial cable connection between franking machine and a To be able to insert weight-determining scales. Here are different embodiments for the signal flow possible: The signal flow can be via the second with the Libra coupled interface can be designed that the balance information directly from the postage computer module is used to determine postage. With the first Interface with which the postage computer module to the Postage meter is connected, only the determined postage value transferred. On the other hand, too conceivable that the balance information first on the Interfaces of the postage computer module to the franking machine is forwarded, and from there to one other time than block with the information about the User input for postage calculation back to the Postage calculator module goes. Thirdly, it is conceivable that the Postage calculator through additional hardware otherwise continuous connection between Frankierma machine and scale interrupts when it comes out of the Data stream recognizes that the current block of information is intended for him, or then interrupts, if the postage calculator itself provides information the franking machine is to be sent.

It is conceivable that the postage calculator on the one Interface read information flow of the scale converted and only then to the franking machine forwarded. This results in the special Advantage of adding scales with a different protocol to be able to connect existing systems without entering the To have to intervene with the franking machine, for example to do Exchange the scale communication program.  

It is expedient that the franking machine automatically the presence of the interchangeable postage calculator recognizes to the customer the calculation accordingly offer function or the desired postage from To query customers.

It is planned to use the serial interface interchangeable postage computer module if necessary program or load data.

Advantageous developments of the invention are in the Sub-claims marked or are below along with the description of the preferred embodiment tion of the invention with reference to the figures Darge poses. Show it:

Fig. 1, view of the pluggable postage calculator module,

Fig. 2, inside view of the pluggable postage computer module according to a first variant,

Fig. 3, internal view of the pluggable postage calculator module according to a second variant,

Fig. 4, detachable postage calculator module for a postage scale,

Fig. 5, detachable postage calculator module for a kiermaschine Francisco, lenverschaltungsvariante according to a first interface of,

Kiermaschine Fig. 6, detachable postage calculator module for a Francisco, lenverschaltungsvariante according to a second interface of,

Fig. 7a, flowchart for data exchange of a pluggable postage calculator module to iden averaging the postage value for a postage scale, or a franking machine,

Fig. 7b flowchart for data exchange of a pluggable postage calculator module according to a subvariant,

Computer module Fig. 8, data for the flow of information from the postage meter for the interchangeable postage,

Fig. 9, data for the flow of information from the exter NEN postage calculator module to the franking machine,

Fig. 10, additional data for the information flow from the meter to the exchangeable postage calculator module cash,

Fig. 11, additional data for the information flow from the exchangeable postage calculator module to the franking machine.

In Fig. 1 is a view of the pluggable and Portogebühren- calculation module 50 is shown with a safety housing 51 which, for example, having a serial interface, a V24 interface 52.

The interior view shown in FIG. 2 gives an impression of an inexpensive construction with a single-chip computer 53 on a circuit board 56 . In addition, the single-chip computer 53 can be connected to an additional module 55 for clock generation.

To prevent an unauthorized replica, the Postage calculator of the exchangeable postage calculator module also as an OTP processor (ONE TIME PROGRAMMABLE) be trained. Such an OTP processor has one internal volatile RAM iRAM and internal non-volatile memory iROM or iEPROM, where the latter during manufacture or afterwards is programmed accordingly for the customer.  

All crucial parts of the program are internal Program memory iROM saved. According to the program The program, including the Interface program, can no longer be read out.

An 8051 processor, for example, can be used as the OTP a 16 kbyte on-chip EPROM as an internal program memory can be used.

Another OTP type has an additional description internal non-volatile memory E²PROM, in the carrier-specific data via the interface, (e.g. tariff table data) can be loaded.

In contrast, the interior view shown in FIG. 3 shows a variant which is somewhat more complex to produce with a processing unit (CPU) 54 , non-volatile memory 57 and an additional module 55 . The latter can include a clock generator module and possibly include further modules that are required to operate the serial interface (V24 interface).

A PROM, EPROM, E²PROM, FLASH-MEMORY or battery-backed CMOS-RAM can be used as the non-volatile memory 57 .

The internal processing unit CPU of the exchange postage calculator module is not possible through an im volatile memory stored calculation program programmed to:

• - Providing data from at least one carrier from exchangeable postage computer module for changing the display in the base unit due to user input service requirements placed on a carrier and for processing the data supplied in the Base unit,
• - Receive weight data and shipping data for a mail piece,
• - Postage value calculation based on the postage rate tables  data and calculation structure of the desired agency rers in the exchangeable postage computer module and
• - Deliver data including postage at least one carrier of the interchangeable Postage calculator module for carrier-related processing of the data supplied in the basic device.

Fig. 4 shows an interface connection with plug-in postage fee and calculation module for a postage scale, which is connected with its one serial interface 61 with the one serial interface 41 of the franking machine 40 . A known intel ligente postage scale 60 i is already provided for postage calculation for a single public mail carrier (post office). Under the title: Method for entering data into a balance, an extension to a set of carriers has already been proposed in a previously unpublished European application 95250313.4, the desired carrier being able to be selected from the aforementioned set. Each carrier is assigned a carrier identification number (CIN) as an identifier. The calculated postage and the CIN are transmitted from the postage scale to the franking machine. The postage scale contains an electrically programmable non-volatile memory for the tariff table data. The franking machine and postage meter are initialized for the same location and the same set of carriers. Checking data are transmitted from the postage meter to the franking machine, for checking in the franking machine whether the tariff table data is still current. Otherwise an automatic update can be carried out.

A postage scale 60 i further developed according to the invention is equipped with two serial interfaces 61 and 62 and with an internal processor which is programmed to transmit the data including the weight data to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 for postage calculation. Such data are, in particular, the type of dispatch entered via the keyboard of the intelligent postage scale 60 i, such as letter, parcel, printed matter, goods shipment, book shipment and others, and / or the dispatch form entered, such as express, registered mail, return receipt, airmail and other and / or data on the destination zone, inland, abroad, postcode, ZIP TO ZONE and, if applicable, mailpiece thickness, mailpiece format, as well as election prints, such as registered mail and other data. Such an intelligent postage scale 60 i also has a corresponding display. For example, characters or texts supplied by the exchangeable postage computer module 50 can also be displayed. The interchangeable postage computer module 50 , which is plugged onto the serial interface 62 of the postage scale 60 i with its serial interface 52 , may make it possible to choose between further shipping data which are not provided for the only public mail carrier (postal authority). The processor of the postage scale 60 i is programmed to query the exchangeable postage computer module for further shipping data, as will be explained with reference to FIG. 10, in order to display this after actuating a suitable actuating means, for example using the keyboard of the postage scale to allow a selection. The calculated postage value is then transmitted to the franking machine 40 via the postage scale 60 i. Such a variant with an intelligent postage balance 60 i is used to preferably extend the postage calculation to at least one new mail carrier or to adapt to a new calculation structure by means of the exchangeable postage computer module 50 .

After an Interface Multiplexer circuit according to Fig. 5, a plug Portogebühren- and calculation module 42 may be a franking machine also inserted on a free interface. In this first variant, a scale 60 is plugged into a second interface of the franking machine 40 in order to transmit weight data. The advantage lies in a cheaper scale 60 compared to a postage scale 60 i, because this scale 60 does not have to be designed internally for postage calculation and possibly not for entering and displaying (all) shipping data.

It is alternatively also provided in a - not shown - embodiment variant with a mechanical scale and - in contrast to the circuit according to FIG. 5 - without interface connection from the scale to the franking machine that weight and shipping data from one and the same device, namely the Franking machine can be transmitted to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 . The weight values read from the mechanical scale must then be entered manually into the franking machine using the franking machine keyboard.

Fig. 6 shows a how a dongle pluggable, postage computer module for a franking machine, according to a second variant, the franking machine does not have enough free interfaces. This second variant of the interface connection for a franking machine and for at least one postage computer module 50 provided with double interfaces 52 and 58 is advantageous for the interface extension if, for example, the franking machine 40 is only equipped with a single serial interface 42 . It is provided that the interchangeable postage computer module 50 with its serial interface 52 on the serial interface 42 of the franking machine 40 is inserted. The exchangeable postage computer module 50 according to the invention here has a second interface 58, preferably for the postage scale 60 i, and a corresponding adapter function with protocol conversion.

The display of the shipping data options will either  via the display unit of the scale or Franking machine realized.

In the event that the postage scale 60 i forms the basic device ( FIG. 4), the shipping data options are displayed on the display unit of the postage scale 60 i. To adapt to new postage calculation structures or other carriers, a modified operating manual for the type of scale and a new associated scale keyboard membrane are supplied by the manufacturer. Instead of the balance keyboard foil, individual stickers for special function keys of the balance are provided depending on the balance type. Balance keyboard foil or stickers can be omitted if the keys of the balance keyboard are labeled neutrally, whereby the labels are listed and explained in the operating instructions. The display can be adjusted in different ways depending on the type of display.

An adaptation of the user interface will be output fundamentally implemented by:

• a) View listed or individual Command code in connection with explanatory plain texts in the associated operating instructions, or
• b) Displaying texts which are delivered from the exchangeable postage computer module 50 (data record in FIG. 11).

The variant a) also enables simple Display units, such as a ten-digit communication with the User. The over ten digit seven segment Characters displayed are used as a command code based on the aforementioned modified operating instructions identified by the user and can be accessed using Key operation can be changed or acknowledged.

But if the franking machine is the basic device, it can Display of shipping data options via the display  unit of the franking machine also in the aforementioned Way to be realized.

An improvement in the user interface is achieved with an alphanumeric display unit suitable for text display or with a graphic display. Linking to an existing menu structure, a special menu part supplied by the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 can be displayed, data records being exchanged via the communication link between the exchangeable postage calculator module and franking machine, which are explained in more detail with reference to FIGS . 10 and 11. The processor of the franking machine 40 is programmed to display such further shipping data in order to enable selection via the keyboard of the franking machine 40 .

The selection of shipping data is transmitted to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 . The calculated postage value is then transmitted from the exchangeable postage computer module 50 to the franking machine 40 . The scale 60 only supplies the weight data measured on the item of mail.

If the postage balance 60 i or balance 60 in FIGS . 4 to 6 is removed, further alternative design variants result. In such an embodiment variant (not shown in FIGS. 4 to 6) it is also provided that weight and shipping data are transmitted from one and the same device to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 . For example, weight data can be entered manually or, under certain circumstances, calculated in a device, such as personal computer 70 or franking machine 40 , which then eliminates the need for postage scales 60 i or scales 60 . Another peripheral device can also be provided for entering the weight data.

An automatically operating franking machine can advantageously be connected to a personal computer via which all entries are made. To enter the weight data by the personal computer 70 , the weight data are calculated on the basis of the number of inserts, the average insert weight, the type of packaging and the weight of the packaging material. A suitable system, but without the interchangeable postage calculation module according to the invention, is explained in more detail in the unpublished German application 196 17 557.7 under the title: Method for determining the cheapest conveyor and mail processing system with personal computer and with a method for data processing.

In another advantageous variant, the franking machine is equipped with a convenient user interface (user interface) for all inputs and displays. A suitable system, but without the interchangeable postage calculation module according to the invention, has been explained in more detail in the unpublished German application 196 17 476.7 under the title: Method and arrangement for data processing in a mail processing system with a franking machine. In the latter case, when using the invention, ie with the interchangeable postage calculation module according to the invention, an interface connection as shown in principle in the interface connection according to the invention according to FIG. 5 is shown, but without the postage balance. Instead of the scale, a remote personal computer 70 is connected to the serial interface.

In the FIG. 7a is a flow chart for data exchange of a pluggable Portogebühren- and calculation module with other devices, preferably represented to determine the postage value for a postage scale or postage meter. Various devices that are related to one another, such as franking machine 40 , balance 60 or personal computer 70, are conceivable, which carry out the following steps:

• Step 600, selection of the serial interface to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 ,
• Step 610, transmission of weight data including data to the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 , which contains a postage fee and calculation module and which is connected to any of the aforementioned devices or between two of the aforementioned devices,
• Step 620, transmission of the shipping data to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 , wherein the shipping data can include the shipping type and the shipping form and can include further data,
• - Step 630, postage calculation in the exchangeable postage computer module 50 according to the current tariff and
• - Step 640, sending postage value, shipping data and additional data to the franking machine 40 .

The connection of the different devices 40 , 60 and / or 70 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 takes place in principle according to one of the variants shown in FIGS . 4, 5 or 6. In one embodiment variant, weight and shipping data are transmitted from different devices 40 , 60 and / or 70 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 . Corresponding sub-process steps for the transmission of the shipping data from different devices to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 are then to be provided for the second step 620, the process steps mentioned above.

The flowchart explained with reference to FIG. 7a on the one hand forms a solution for the variants shown in FIGS . 4 and 5 and on the other hand this flowchart for an exchangeable postage computer module is also a first solution for the second variant shown in FIG. 6 a franking machine with a pluggable postage fee and calculation module on a serial interface. It is thus possible for the scale 60 to transmit only the weight value and for the postage calculation to be carried out in the exchangeable postage computer module. The further selected shipping data and the identifier CIN of the selected mail carrier are transmitted by the franking machine to the exchangeable postage calculator module.

In Fig. 7b, a sub-variant of a flowchart for the data exchange of a plug-in postage fee and calculation module is shown. This sub-variant applies specifically to the interface circuit according to the variant shown in FIG. 6. A step 600 is again provided for selecting the interface, but is not shown.

In the first sub-step 611 , the scale 60 i supplies the current weight to the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 , analogously to step 610 explained above, for transmitting the weight data to the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 . After this first sub-step 611 with a signal flow from the scale 60 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 , the weight information is converted if necessary and then transmitted to the franking machine in the second sub-step 612 . After this transmission of the weight data to the postage meter machine, the data is collected in the postage meter machine in the third sub-step 613 . The franking machine initially stores the weight data until the user has entered the type of dispatch, form and other data, for example CIN. The franking machine compiles a data record - shown in FIG. 8 - with the addition of shipping data and further data. The second step 620 is specified for the sub-step 621 in such a way that the aforementioned data record is transmitted from the franking machine 40 to the exchangeable postage computer module 50 . In the third step 630, the postage calculation is carried out again by the postage fee and calculation module located in the exchangeable postage calculator module. Step 640 is then carried out, with the interchangeable postage computer module 50 transmitting a data record to the franking machine 40 , which is explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 9.

In FIG. 8, a record for the Informa is tionsfluß shown for the interchangeable postage computer, as it is for example transmitted in step 621 of the postage meter. According to the invention, an identifier CIN is transmitted in the data record for the selected mail carrier. The data record includes at least the mail piece weight and selected shipping parameters. The number of shipping parameters is variable. In order to communicate this number, information about the length of the parameter list of the data record is transmitted in advance. If necessary, further data, such as dimensions of the mail item, are transmitted. Further data record components contribute to the success of the transmission. The data record is opened with a start sequence and concluded with an end sequence. For the purpose of data security, the data record also contains a check sum (checksum) about essential data of the data record.

In FIG. 9, a record for the infor is mationsfluß from the exchangeable postage calculator to the franking machine shown. According to the invention, an identifier CIN for the selected mail carrier and an identifier for the list type or type of postage fee and calculation module are transmitted in the data record. The data record includes at least the determined postage value and, if necessary, the place for the decimal point. The data record is opened with a start sequence and concluded with an end sequence. For data security, the data record again contains a check sum (checksum) about essential data of the data record and information about the length of the parameter list of the data record. The data record contains, as an additional data record component, information about the error status. Here, for example, a "0" can not mean an error, but "1" can mean an error due to a changed form of dispatch. Error "2" is displayed if a calculation is not possible. An unknown carrier selected by an incorrectly transmitted CIN is notified by error "10", etc.

FIG. 10 shows an additional data record for the flow of information from the franking machine to the exchangeable postage computer, which is used to prepare a selection of the CIN, shipping data and other data. According to the invention, a command COMMAND "KLARTEXT VERSENDUNGSFORM" and a parameter KZZIFFER AUSÜSSIFÜHLIGICHT as well as an identifier CIN for the carrier "CARRIER" are transmitted. The IDENTIFICATION enables the requesting base device (postage meter, franking machine) to transmit a data record (characters or text) adapted to its display means. Detailed explanations can be called up in an auxiliary mode.

According to the invention, an automatic adaptation to a different user interface hardware for the most diverse basic devices are provided.

FIG. 11 shows an additional data set for the flow of information from the exchangeable postage calculator to the franking machine. According to the invention, texts are transmitted to enable the setting or display of shipping parameters and / or other transport-specific data. In addition to the data record components already mentioned and the identifier of the list type and the identifier of the carrier, the following information is transmitted:

• - number of texts,
• - Length of text with number 1  
• - ASCII characters for the text to number 1
• - text recognition,
• - Length of text with number 2
• - ASCII characters for the text to number 2
• - text recognition, etc.

With the display unit of the base unit, for example the franking machine, also one Representation take place, which in the menu accordingly correctly classified, a choice between additional setting data or additional parameters enables. An adaptable tree is required structure of the menu branches of a flexible User interface, which for example under the title: Method and arrangement for data entry in a Franking machine, in the unpublished German application 195 49 305.2 was proposed.

Communication with such data sets shown in principle in FIGS. 10 and 11 can take place several times in succession and is always advantageous if the basic device has a comfortable user interface with a multi-line or graphic display suitable for text display.

In an advantageous embodiment variant can be provided that modified carrier-specific Parts of the printed image in the interchangeable postage store computer module non-volatile and if necessary to load into the franking machine. For manipulation security becomes an encrypted checksum about the data of the carrier-specific print image parts provided. On the franking imprint or printed image can then, for example, in a mail distribution center the carrier with whom the item of mail is recognized to be transported. For such an execution variant is of course a non-mechanical printing process drive especially for any programmable prints suitable.  

In a further embodiment variant, a Franking machine, which has a serial interface and a suitable interface communication program owns, for the automatic postage calculation be upgraded for one or more carriers. Also a basic machine, which in the non-volatile Save the country-specific authority by default rer, especially the public mail carrier, such as contains for example the German Post AG loaded, can still be upgraded. Additional carriers can now attach when using the invention exchangeable postage calculator module to be selected in addition to the mail item according to the invention optionally by another agency have it transported if it is cheaper.

The main advantage is the lack of any Limitation for postage calculation with simultaneous Retrofittability to be viewed by the customer. The postage calculation can also be carried out when looking for completely new or different faces points is carried out which the carrier in the Determines the future.

With the increasing liberalization of postal delivery mail processing systems become of interest to the customer sant, with which it is possible for him to offered different competing carriers for to select it optimally. That presupposes that the data center or service facility of the Franking machine manufacturer or the carrier the Customer information is available for this selection can put. The franking machine is for billing with the same set of desired carriers equipped, like the interchangeable postage calculation module.

On the one hand, when the  Basic device or the franking machine a preselection a group of carriers, like this one in the interchangeable postage calculation module is loaded and from which the desired carrier subsequently can be selected. Every carrier is one unique identifier assigned to CIN. An invention others ensure the routine in the franking machine is correct on the other hand automatically for a match with others current carrier-related data, which in the Base machine, for example the franking machine, for CIN assigned are stored. Such additional For example, data creates a carrier-specific and a country-specific Billing in the franking machine. Any not Match is displayed as an error message.

In a further development of the invention, an automatic update routine for stored tariff table data is carried out in the franking machine, with corresponding means being provided so that the franking machine can communicate with a data center if necessary. Optionally, tariff table data are reloaded and then transmitted to the postage fee module in the exchangeable postage calculator module 50 . The exchangeable postage calculator module 50 is only exchanged in this embodiment if at least one of the set of carriers can now calculate a postage value according to another basic calculation structure.

A site-specific initialization of the franking the machine is carried out automatically each time it is switched on or manually. The latter input option exists after switching on in a sub-step Initialization, by entering the zip code zip code in the franking machine.

The ability to determine a postage value for a particular carrier is fundamentally determined by the purpose of a franking machine to clear mail items or mail items for a selected carrier. If the corresponding tariff or the desired service is not available in the postage calculator module 50 , automatic determination of the postage is not possible for some of the carriers. If the corresponding tariff or the desired service is not available in the postage computer module 50 , the postage computer module 50 replies with an error message.

Conversely, if the desired service on the part of the postage computer module 50 differs from the determination of the base device or if the franking machine is not suitable for certain types of franking or printing on a mail piece, this can also be determined and displayed or signaled, in particular in response to a corresponding input by an input means of the user interface hardware (keyboard).

The invention is not based on the present form of management limited, since obviously more other arrangements or executions of the method can be developed or used by the Starting from the same basic idea of the invention enclosed claims are included.

Claims (13)

1. Exchangeable postage calculator module, characterized in that it is designed as a postage fee and calculation module that can be replaced by the customer and plugged into or into a basic device, which has an internal processing unit and a non-volatile memory for the calculation program and for postage rate table data and is programmed for:

• - supplying data from at least one carrier from the exchangeable postage computer module to a carrier for changing the display based on user input relating to service requests and processing the delivered data in the basic device,
• Receiving weight data and shipping data for a mail item,
• - Postage value calculation based on the postage tariff data and calculation structure of the desired carrier in the exchangeable postage calculator module and
• - Delivery of the data including the postage value of at least one carrier from the exchangeable postage computer module for processing the supplied data in the base unit.

2. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to claim 1, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) has at least one serial interface ( 52 , 58 ) that various interrelated devices, such as franking machine ( 40 ), scales ( 60 ) or personal computers ( 70 ) are connected in terms of interface and that the exchangeable postage calculator module ( 50 ), which contains the postage fee and calculation module, is connected to any of the aforementioned devices, which functions as a basic device. 3. Interchangeable postage computer module, according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) with its serial interface ( 52 ) is plugged into the serial interface ( 62 ) of the postage scale ( 60 i). 4. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) with its serial interface ( 52 ) is plugged into the serial interface ( 42 ) of the franking machine ( 40 ). 5. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) has a second serial interface ( 58 ) and interface between two of the aforementioned devices ( 40 and 60 or 60 i or 70 ) is switched. 6. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) has a corresponding adapter function with protocol conversion. 7. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) is equipped with a single-chip computer ( 53 ) on a circuit board ( 56 ), which with the serial interface ( 52 ) is connected. 8. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to claim 7, characterized in that the postage computer of the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) is constructed in a copy-protected manner as an OTP processor (ONE TIME PRO GRAMMABLE) which has an internal volatile memory iRAM and internal non-volatile memory iROM or iEPROM and / or E²PROM. 9. Exchangeable postage computer module, according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) with a processing unit CPU ( 54 ), a non-volatile memory ( 57 ) and an additional module ( 55 ) is equipped, wherein the additional module ( 55 ) include a clock generator module and, if necessary, include further modules that are required to operate the serial interface. 10. Method for data transmission between postage computer module and a basic device, characterized by the following steps:

• - Step (600), selection of the serial interface to the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ),
• - Step (610), transmission of weight data including data for a mail item and reception of weight data in the exchangeable postage calculator module ( 50 ) which contains a postage fee and calculation module and which is connected to any of the aforementioned devices or between two of the aforementioned devices,
• - Step (620), transmission of the shipping data to the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ), wherein the shipping data can include the shipping method and the shipping form and can include further data,
• - Step (630), postage value calculation in the exchangeable postage calculator module ( 50 ) according to the current tariff on the basis of the postage tariff table data and calculation structure of the desired carrier in the exchangeable postage calculator module and
• - Step (640), sending postage, shipping data and additional data to the franking machine ( 40 ).

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that the step (620) for transmitting the shipping data is preceded by the delivery of data from at least one carrier of the exchangeable postage computer module ( 50 ) for changing the display in the base unit. 12. The method according to claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the step (620) for transmitting the shipping data to the exchangeable postage computer module as a result of inputs relating to service requests made to a carrier and / or for processing the data supplied in the base unit ( 50 ) is triggered. 13. The method according to claims 10 to 12 characterized by that Send in step (640) with a delivery from the Data including at least one postage value Carrier from exchangeable postage computer module to carrier-related processing of the data supplied is connected in the base unit.